The advancements of AEM technology in China
Anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolysis is the electrolysis of water that utilises a semipermeable membrane that conducts hydroxide ions (OH−) called an anion exchange membrane. Of all water electrolysis methods, AEM electrolysis can combine the advantages of alkaline water electrolysis (ALK) and PEM electrolysis. Polymer electrolyte membrane electrolysis uses expensive platinum-group metals (PGMs) such as platinum, iridium, and ruthenium as a catalyst. Like alkaline water electrolysis, electrodes in AEM electrolysis operate in an alkaline environment, which allows non-noble, low-cost catalysts based on Ni, Fe, Co, Mn, Cu, etc to be used.
Although China is highly competitive on traditional ALK electrolysis technology, some Chinese companies have acknowledged the potential of AEM technology and have made significant achievements in 2023.
On August 7th, 2023, Enapter AG signed a framework supply contract worth over 6 million Euros with a Chinese company Wolong. Wolong is one of the leading engine and drive manufacturers worldwide and is also active in the area of renewable energy. The contract signed on August 7 includes the delivery of five megawatt multi-core systems for several customers in China, as well as around 130 compact single-core electrolysers (AEM Electrolyser EL 4.0), which would be tested and deployed in various applications.
image: Enapter’s multi-core AEM electrolyser system
Enapter and Wolong intend to make modular hydrogen solutions competitive in China. In collaborating with its Chinese partner Wolong, Enapter expects to gain a significant market share in China’s booming green hydrogen economy.
On August 18th, Titan Wind, one of the largest wind tower and blade equipment manufacturer in China, announced it will establish an AEM innovation and manufacturing facility in Puyang, Henan province. It would become the first commercial scale AEM manufacturing plant in China.
Some observers believe that 2024 would see the beginning of AEM technology commercialization in China. More players will enter the market and try to reduce the cost of AEM electrolyser products to promote the deployment.